Alexandre Yersin Museum: Unveiling the Life of a Renowned Scientist

Tucked in the heart of Nha Trang, the Alexandre Yersin Museum offers a unique glimpse into the life of the Swiss-French doctor who devoted much of his life to Vietnam. With rare artifacts, personal belongings, and scientific tools on display. Read on to discover its history, how to get there, what to see inside, and tips for making the most of your visit!

1. Location And Recommended Ways to Head to Alexandre Yersin Museum

The Alexandre Yersin Museum is situated at 10 Tran Phu Street, Xuong Huan Ward, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province, within the grounds of the Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang. This central location places the museum just steps away from the beachfront promenade, offering visitors picturesque views of the sea and easy access to nearby attractions.​

Situated in the heart of Nha Trang's city center, the museum is located near the coastline, making it easily reachable on foot for those staying nearby. For visitors coming from other parts of the city, several transportation options are available:​

• Motorbike: Booking a motorbike ride through an app for a one-way trip to the Alexandre Yersin Museum, with a distance of around 1 kilometer from the city center, typically costs between 15,000 VND to 20,000 VND (USD 0.58 – USD 0.77), depending on traffic and time of day.​
• Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout Nha Trang. A ride from the city center to the museum usually costs between 20,000 VND - 30,000 VND (USD 0.77 – USD 1.15), depending on traffic and exact pickup location.

The museum was designed in a restrained yet dignified style, mirroring the legacy of Alexandre Yersin's contributions (Source: Internet)

2. Opening Hours And Entrance Fees of Alexandre Yersin Museum

The Alexandre Yersin Museum welcomes visitors from Monday to Saturday morning, with two time slots each day: 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM, and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The museum is closed on Sunday, Saturday afternoon and major holidays. It’s advisable to visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience.

Entrance fees are kept affordable and vary depending on visitor categories. Adults are charged around 20,000 VND (USD 0.8), while students pay a reduced fee of 10,000 VND (USD 0.4). Children under 1.2 meters in height can enter free of charge. This tiered pricing makes the museum accessible to a wider range of guests, including families and school groups.

Currently, the museum does not offer audio guides, so visitors are encouraged to read the bilingual descriptions provided on the displays.

Visitors listen attentively as a guide shares stories about Dr. Alexandre Yersin’s life and contributions at the museum (Source: Internet)

3. Interesting Facts about Dr. Alexandre Yersin

Dr. Alexandre Yersin was born in 1863 in Switzerland and studied medicine in Lausanne and Marburg. He was a renowned explorer, physician, and scientist, credited with discovering the Lam Vien Plateau, now known as Da Lat. Yersin also founded the Indochina Medical School, which later became Hanoi Medical University and co-established the Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang.

More than a scientist, Yersin was known for his compassion. He lived in a small house in Con Fishing Village in Nha Trang, where he offered free medical care to the poor. He was the co-discoverer of the bacterium responsible for the bubonic plague and passed away in 1943. His tomb lies in Suoi Dau, about 20km from central Nha Trang. Therefore, the Alexandre Yersin Museum was established to honor his legacy and contributions to science and Vietnam.

Portrait of Dr. Alexandre Yersin, the pioneering scientist whose work left a lasting legacy in Vietnam and beyond (Source: Internet)

4. Educational Exhibits to Explore at The Alexandre Yersin Museum

The Alexandre Yersin Museum houses a rich collection of personal items, scientific tools, and historical documents that reflect Yersin’s remarkable life and legacy. Visitors can explore various themed exhibits that bring his medical discoveries and cultural contributions to life.

4.1. An Extensive Collection of Yersin’s Personal Artefacts

The Alexandre Yersin Museum houses a remarkable collection of Dr. Yersin’s personal belongings, offering visitors a glimpse into his life and scientific endeavors. These artifacts not only showcase his contributions to medicine and exploration but also reflect his modest lifestyle and dedication to research.​

• Microscopes and Petri dishes: Essential tools used by Dr. Yersin in his groundbreaking bacteriological research, including the identification of the plague bacillus. Observing these instruments allows visitors to appreciate the meticulous work involved in his scientific discoveries.​
• Antique Leroy clock: A timepiece that adorned Yersin's study, symbolizing his disciplined approach to research and daily life. This clock provides a tangible connection to the era in which he lived and worked.​
• Morse antennas and calculators: Devices that highlight Yersin’s interest in communication and calculation technologies, reflecting his multifaceted scientific pursuits beyond medicine.​
• Globes and telescopes: Instruments that underscore his passion for geography and astronomy, offering insights into his exploratory journeys and studies of the natural world.​
• Electrical measuring instruments: Tools that demonstrate his engagement with electrical engineering, showcasing the breadth of his scientific curiosity and expertise.
• Personal furniture: Items such as rattan beds, chairs, bookcases, wardrobes, and mirrors, valuable photos of Khanh Hoa’s landscapes and neighboring provinces from his residence, illustrating his simple living conditions and personal taste.​

A rare archival photograph of Dr. Alexandre Yersin, captured during his early scientific years (Source: Internet)

The telescope displayed at the Alexandre Yersin Museum, offers a glimpse into his explorations and research (Source: Internet)

These preserved artefacts bring visitors closer to Yersin’s groundbreaking medical work (Source: Internet)

4.2. The Architectural Model of Alexandre Yersin's Home

At the Alexandre Yersin Museum, guests can view a detailed model of Dr. Yersin’s former home in the Con Fishing Village of Nha Trang. This small yet significant space is recreated with care, featuring his original rattan furniture such as a bed, armchair, wardrobe, and bookshelf, capturing the modest lifestyle he embraced. The house also doubled as a clinic where he treated local villagers with compassion and dedication.

In addition, a model of his retreat in the Hon Ba Mountains is also on display, reflecting his deep bond with nature and tireless pursuit of scientific knowledge. These reconstructions offer a personal perspective into Yersin’s daily life and values, bridging the gap between history and humanity.

A tranquil replica of Dr. Yersin’s retreat on Hon Ba Peak, surrounded by lush greenery and misty mountains (Source: Internet)

4.3. Yersin’s Scientific Achievements

Dr. Alexandre Yersin's legacy in science is both profound and enduring. In 1894, during a devastating outbreak in Hong Kong, he identified and cultured the bacterium responsible for the bubonic plague, later named Yersinia pestis in his honour. This pivotal discovery significantly advanced the understanding of infectious diseases and laid the groundwork for future treatments.

Beyond his groundbreaking work in bacteriology, Yersin made substantial contributions to Vietnam's development. He introduced rubber and quinine trees to the region, aiding in both economic growth and malaria treatment efforts. Additionally, he was also a member of the academies of science, medicine, and colonial studies, as well as a member of the Scientific Council of the Pasteur Institute.

Yersin's dedication to science and his adopted homeland is commemorated through various exhibits at the museum, offering visitors insight into his multifaceted achievements.

A bilingual display listing Alexandre Yersin’s numerous honors and his lasting legacy in Vietnam (Source: Internet)

4.4. A Golden Souvenir Book

At the museum, there is a special golden souvenir book where visitors are encouraged to write down their thoughts and emotions after discovering the remarkable life and work of Alexandre Yersin. As time goes by and more people come to visit, the book continues to grow, filled with heartfelt messages and lasting impressions from people all over the world.

5. Local Advice for A Perfect Visit to Alexandre Yersin Museum

To make the most of your visit to the Alexandre Yersin Museum, consider a few practical tips. These suggestions will help enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture and heritage.

• Show respect for local customs: While Nha Trang is known for its relaxed coastal vibe, dressing modestly when visiting cultural landmarks like museums shows respect. Covering shoulders and knees is a simple gesture that reflects appreciation for local customs and sacred spaces.
• Tour other related sites for a full experience: Extend your visit by taking a walk through Yersin Park, admiring the statue dedicated to him, and paying respects at his grave. These stops help complete the story of Yersin’s life and legacy, offering a more immersive cultural experience.
• Watch a short documentary about Yersin before your visit: Knowing who Yersin was and what he did in Vietnam will help you appreciate the museum more. A quick 5-10 minute “Alexandre Yersin documentary” video on YouTube is enough to give you the context.

A brief documentary on Alexandre Yersin offers valuable context to better appreciate your visit to the museum and Yersin Park (Source: Internet)

6. Other Attractions And Historical Sites near The Alexandre Yersin Museum

While visiting the Alexandre Yersin Museum, you can also explore several nearby landmarks that offer a deeper look into Nha Trang’s local culture and charm.

6.1. Dam Market

Dam Market is about 1km from the Alexandre Yersin Museum, located in Phan Boi Chau Street, Van Thanh Ward, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province. It is the largest and most iconic bustling hub where visitors can experience the local lifestyle, shop for souvenirs, dried seafood, and traditional handicrafts. Walking through its lively alleys gives you a true taste of Nha Trang’s daily rhythm and vibrant street culture.

Dam Market is Nha Trang’s iconic commercial hub, where local culture comes alive amid bustling stalls and colorful vendors (Source: Internet)

6.2. Agarwood Tower

Agarwood Tower is located on Tran Phu Square, Loc Tho Ward, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province, about 1.4km from the Alexandre Yersin Museum. Shaped like a blooming lotus, this striking monument pays tribute to agarwood, a treasured local product. It’s a favorite spot for photos, especially at dusk, and offers a pleasant seaside atmosphere where visitors can enjoy ocean breezes, light snacks, and casual entertainment along the promenade.

Agarwood Tower, a lotus-shaped landmark on Nha Trang’s beachfront, stands as a modern tribute to the city’s cultural soul (Source: Internet)

6.3. Nha Trang Beach

Nha Trang Beach stretches along Tran Phu Street in Loc Tho Ward, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province, only about 1km from the Alexandre Yersin Museum. Known for its golden sands and clear turquoise waters, this iconic coastline is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Visitors can also enjoy a peaceful walk along the beachfront promenade or relax at one of the many cafés and beach lounges lining the shore.

Visitors can soak up the sun and sea at Nha Trang Beach, where vibrant blue waters meet the laid-back charm of the coast (Source: Internet)

The Alexandre Yersin Museum stands as a poignant tribute to the life and groundbreaking work of the Swiss-French bacteriologist. Nestled in Nha Trang, this captivating museum invites visitors to explore a treasure trove of personal mementos, scientific milestones, and historical exhibits that illuminate Yersin’s profound impact. Making it a must-see for anyone eager to understand his lasting legacy in Vietnam and beyond.

For more insights into must-visit places and local delicacies, explore Vietnam Airlines’ travel guides for more updates!